Magnussen happy to send 'alarm bells'

World 100 metres freestyle champion James Magnussen believes his sizzling form is ringing alarm bells among his overseas rivals.

The 20-year-old Magnussen, who burst onto the international scene last year with his sensational win at the world championships in Shanghai, clocked a blistering 48.05 seconds to win the South Australian 100m title in Adelaide last month.

He will have his final hit-out before next month's national championships and Olympic trials at this week's New South Wales titles in Sydney.

Asked if his he was sending his overseas opposition a message with his scintillating form in Adelaide, Magnussen said: "I think it would kind of have to.

"To be swimming those times without taper has got to send alarm bells."

Magnussen hopes to go under 48 seconds in Sydney, but says that is not a specific goal.

He will contest the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle events.

Touted as Australia's great swimming hope at the London Olympics, Magnussen is unfazed by the growing expectations generated by his success.